your place is YOUR PLACE

Yesterday I saw a super happy person.
A younger women, in uniform, in a work car and working by herself. For a utility of all things.
Yet she emanated happiness and focus.
Why? Because she was surrounded by her own music, was wearing the uniform with her own style and was doing things her way. And she was working late too.
She had made wherever she was HER place.

How are you making your place(s) YOURS?


(In an inspired frame of mind thanks to Linchpin by Seth Godin, Matt at Life without Pants and @MelissaGorzela)

photo credit: whsimages

simple inspiration

Delving into the stack of books in the dying-to-read-when-I-make-the-time pile, I was flicking through the second Love-marks book when I came across a really powerful statement that resonates with me both as a business owner and a brand-professional.

“I am not interested in competing, I’m interested in making a contribution.”
Horst Rechelbacker – founder Aveda.

So much hype goes into watching, analysing others. Often seeking to emulate others’ successes. But the brands which have true meaning are exactly that – they focus on their meaning, purpose and customers – sod the rest. The rest can follow if they want to.

Why focus all your energy on where your energy on your competitors when you could be focusing all of your energy on where you brand and business want to be.

The most iconic brands are not revered for their competitive ability (although an important tactical advantage), they are revered for their place and contribution to people’s lives.

(4 Jan, 2009)